LAW7266 - Principles of torts

Leader: Ms Suzie Linden

Offered

City (Melbourne) Trimester 2 2008 (Day)
City (Melbourne) Trimester 3 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This subject give students an understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts of tort law and of the policies underlying them. It will examine the principal common law torts, including negligence and defamation, and the relationship between common law rights and remedies and relevant State and Federal legislation. Students will become familiar with policy issues such as loss distribution and the role of compulsory insurance. The subject will include an introduction to comparable systems of compensation in relevant overseas jurisdictions.

Objectives

On completion of this subject students will have:

1. acquired the ability to analyse a factual situation and accurately identify tortious rights and obligations;
2. acquired the ability to identify remedies available under relevant legislation;
3. acquired some familiarity with the policies underlying tort law and the ability to recognise the likely future development of the law in this area;
4. further developed skills in caselaw analysis and statutory interpretation.

Assessment

Memorandum of Advice: 30%
Final examination: 70%

Contact hours

2 hours per week x 12 weeks

Prerequisites

LAW7212

Prohibitions

LAW2200